Welcome to Week 3 of Moving May! So far you’ve decluttered, depersonalized, and now it’s time to face what most people dread the most: packing. 

But don’t worry — this week is all about making packing feel totally manageable with insider strategies, smart labeling tips, and simple systems that will save your sanity (and your glassware!). Let’s get your home packed up the Barnhart Home way — with intention, clarity, and confidence. 

Why Packing the Right Way Matters

When you know how to pack for a move, everything goes smoothly. You’ll avoid last-minute chaos, reduce the risk of damage, and — best of all — make unpacking a breeze in your new space.

An organized move starts with an organized pack. Let’s break it down step by step.

Moving Organization Tips:

Start with a Plan

Before a single box is taped, you’ll want to do a little prep work.

 Create a Packing Plan:

• Pack one room at a time
• Label each box by room + category (example: “Kitchen – Baking Supplies”)
  
• Number your boxes if you want an easy inventory checklist

Gather Supplies You’ll Actually Use

• Sturdy boxes in multiple sizes
  
• Packing tape + a tape gun (life-changing!)
  
• Bubble wrap, packing paper, or soft linens for padding
  
• Sharpies or pre-printed labels
  
• Color-coded stickers or washi tape for visual sorting
  

Packing Hacks That Save Time and Stress–Use What You Already Have.

For Example:

• Wrap fragile items in towels or pillowcases
• Pack spices in slow cookers or pots
  
• Use laundry baskets, bins, and suitcases instead of buying extra boxes
  

Label Like a Pro
Label on the side of the box (not just the top!)

Include both room and contents

Bonus: add “Open First” or “Fragile” stickers where needed

 Pro Tip: Try the Colored Tape Method
This is one of my favorite pro moving hacks, and it’s perfect for visual thinkers (and helpful for movers too!):
-Assign a specific tape color to each room — you can grab multi-color tape packs on at your local hardware store

-Place the color tape on each box that belongs to that room (in addition to labeling it with room + contents)

-When you arrive at the new house, place the same color tape on each room’s door or entryway — that way, everyone knows exactly where each box goes

-Create a color key and tape it near the entrance so movers or helpers can quickly reference it (example: Blue = Primary Bedroom, Yellow = Kitchen, Green = Office)

It’s simple, affordable, and makes the whole move-in process SO much smoother.

 Pack Smart with Categories

• Keep like with like — no “junk boxes”!
• Use small boxes for heavy items (books, tools) and large boxes for lighter ones (linens, toys)
  
• Fill gaps with packing paper or soft items to avoid shifting
  

 Set Aside an Essentials Box

• Include things you’ll need for the first night:
  
  • Chargers
    
  • Medications
    
  • Paper towels
    
  • Basic toiletries
    
  • Snacks & water
    
  • Coffee/tea essentials
    
  • Trash bags
    
  • A few dishes or utensils
    
    

Download the Barnhart Home Packing Guide Here!

Packing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little prep and some smart systems, you can tackle it room by room, and your future self will be so thankful when it comes time to unpack. Stay tuned for the final week of Moving May next week: “Settling In: How to Unpack and Organize in Your New Home.” You’ve totally got this — and if you need a little help, please reach out!